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1. MultiCam

   May 23, 2024 5:28 am Leave a Comment

   MultiCam is a versatile camouflage pattern designed to reduce visibility across diverse landscapes and seasons while minimizing infrared detection. Originally adopted by the U.S. Army for operations in Afghanistan, MultiCam’s effectiveness has been validated through combat experience and rigorous evaluations. This validation has established it as a trusted choice for multi-environment concealment.

   This article explores MultiCam’s versatile print patterns, camouflage effectiveness, Berry compliance, and military gear applications. We will also analyze the technical specifications of 500 and 1000-Denier Nylon variants, shedding light on their durability and performance in the field.

   Versatility of MultiCam Patterns

   The following are examples of how this pattern is utilized across different products:

   • Duffle bags: This pattern is used to craft durable and concealable duffle bags, which are ideal for transporting essential equipment in military operations and outdoor adventures.
   • Luggage: MultiCam pattern improves luggage camouflage, making it suitable for travel in urban and wilderness environments.
   • Backpacks: This pattern is incorporated into backpack designs, offering reliable concealment for long-range missions or everyday use.
   • Plate carriers: Military personnel rely on plate carriers made with MultiCam patterns for protection and concealment in combat situations.
   • Tactical equipment: Holsters, pouches, and vests constructed from this fabric pattern provide essential camouflage for law enforcement officers and tactical operators.
   • Military gear: This pattern is extensively used in various military gear items, from uniforms to tents, to ensure effective concealment and durability in diverse environments.

   Family of MultiCam Print Patterns

   Here are types of camouflage patterns tailored to improve concealment in various environments:

   Arid

   Tailored for desert environments characterized by open sand and rock landscapes, MultiCam Arid minimizes the visual and near-infrared signature of individuals operating in such areas. This pattern ensures effective concealment by blending seamlessly with the arid surroundings, particularly when paired with gear.

   Tropic

   MultiCam Tropic is engineered for dense jungle environments with lush vegetation that camouflages effectiveness in areas largely unaffected by seasonal changes. It reduces the visual and near-infrared signatures of individuals operating in jungle terrain, providing them with enhanced disguises.

   Alpine

   The Alpine pattern is designed for snow-covered environments, effectively reducing the visual and near-infrared footprint of personnel operating in snowy areas. It is optimized for regions experiencing significant snowfall (stark white surroundings).

   Black

   Specifically crafted for law enforcement officers operating in high-risk environments, this pattern projects an authoritative presence suitable for domestic operations. It is also designed to complement existing law enforcement equipment, presenting a sharp and professional image for law enforcement units.

   Technical Specifications of MultiCam

   These technical specifications detail the features of MultiCam variants, each tailored to ensure durability in military settings:

   500 Denier Nylon

   This model is designed with several key technical features to ensure performance in military applications. These include:

   • Polyurethane coating: enhances durability and resistance to wear
   • Durable water repellent (DWR) treatment: improves moisture resistance, ensuring performance in diverse conditions
   • Width: spans 59″ – 60″ wide, offering ample application coverage
   • Weight: weighs 8 oz/yd^2, balancing strength and lightweight versatility
   • Meets Mil-DTL-32439 type III class 3 specification: ensures compliance with military standards
   • Berry compliance: made in the U.S.A., adhering to domestic sourcing regulations and enhancing reliability and authenticity

   1000 Denier Nylon

   The characteristics of 1000 Denier Nylon comprise:

   • Polyurethane coating: strengthens durability and resistance to wear
   • Durable water repellent (DWR) treatment: enhances moisture resistance to guarantee performance in varied conditions
   • Width: measures 59″ – 60″, providing extensive coverage for various applications
   • Weight: weighs 11 oz/yd^2, signifying heightened density and enhanced durability
   • Meets Mil-DTL-32439 type I class 3 specification: confirms compliance with military standards
   • Berry compliance: manufactured in the U.S.A., complying with domestic sourcing regulations that guarantee authenticity

   Choose HLC Industries for Superior MultiCam Fabric Solutions!

   Experience excellence with HLC Industries’ MultiCam pattern fabric solutions, crafted to meet and exceed your expectations. From U.S. Military to commercial applications, our wide range of products ensures versatility and reliability. We are committed to innovation and quality, with cutting-edge research and continuous improvement.

   Contact us to discover how our fabric solutions can elevate your projects!

2. The Science of Parachute Fabrics: Ensuring Safety and Performance

   May 6, 2024 6:35 am Leave a Comment

   Parachute fabrics or textiles are specialized materials designed for the construction of parachutes. They are engineered to provide strength, durability, and flexibility to withstand the forces experienced during descent and landing. They are often made from synthetic fibers such as nylon and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet strict safety standards.

   In this article, we will explore the materials and manufacturing processes that ensure the reliability and performance of parachute textiles.

   Common Materials Used in Parachute Fabrics

   The materials listed below possess unique qualities that contribute to the overall performance and reliability of the fabrics:

   Nylon

   Nylon is a synthetic polymer known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal choice for parachute applications. Its inherent elasticity allows the fabric to stretch during deployment, absorbing shock and reducing the strain on the parachute canopy. It also exhibits exceptional resistance to abrasion, tearing, and mildew, which ensures the parachute’s longevity in various environmental conditions.

   Silicone-Coated Fabrics

   Silicone coatings are applied to nylon or polyester parachute fabrics to enhance their performance and longevity. Manufacturers create a protective layer that repels water, oils, and other contaminants by impregnating the fabric with silicone. This waterproofing feature is especially important for parachutes deployed in maritime environments or during inclement weather.

   Ripstop Nylon

   Ripstop nylon is characterized by its unique grid-like pattern, incorporating reinforcement threads woven into the fabric at regular intervals. This design effectively prevents tears from spreading beyond the affected area and maintains the structural integrity of the parachute canopy under stress. It also offers enhanced durability and tear resistance compared to conventional fabrics.

   Unique Manufacturing Processes in Parachute Fabric Production

   The following processes combine advanced technology, precision engineering, and stringent quality control measures to produce parachute fabrics:

   Weaving and Looming

   Parachute textile production begins with weaving or looming, where individual textiles are interlaced to form a strong, cohesive fabric. Manufacturers use modern looms to produce textiles with accurate weave patterns and thread densities. This results in the ideal strength-to-weight ratio and tear resistance.

   Coating Application

   After weaving, parachute fabrics typically undergo a coating application process to enhance their performance characteristics. The coatings are carefully formulated and applied using specialized machinery to ensure uniform coverage and adhesion to the fabric surface.

   Calendering and Compression

   Calendering involves passing textiles through heated rollers under pressure to compress the fibers and create a smoother, more uniform surface. This process improves the fabric’s aerodynamic properties, reducing drag during descent and enhancing overall performance.

   Heat Setting and Stabilization

   Heat setting is a critical step that involves subjecting the textile to elevated temperatures to stabilize its molecular structure and dimensional stability. This process helps prevent shrinkage and distortion during use, ensuring that the parachute maintains its shape and integrity over time.

   Partner With HLC Industries for High-Quality Fabrics

   At HLC Industries, we offer an array of superior fabrics crafted to meet the highest quality and performance standards! Our extensive selection includes premium nylon materials in different deniers and weaving patterns, each tailored to specific applications and requirements. We also guarantee prompt delivery, exceptional service, and tailored solutions to meet your unique needs.

   Contact us today for more information.

3. The Durability and Strength of Tactical Nylon Fabrics

   6:26 am Leave a Comment

   Tactical nylon fabrics (also called ballistic nylon) are specialized textiles commonly used in military and law enforcement gear. They are designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for harsh environments and rugged use. They typically feature a woven construction for strength and may incorporate additional coatings for water resistance or camouflaging.

   Let’s explore the key qualities that contribute to these fabrics’ durability and strength!

   Properties of Tactical Nylon Fabrics

   The following features make ballistic nylon ideal for use in settings where durability and resilience are paramount:

   Abrasion Resistance

   Tactical nylon fabrics are constructed with tightly woven fibers and often incorporate robust weaves or coatings that enhance their ability to withstand abrasion. This quality ensures that the material can endure rubbing against rough surfaces without wearing down or developing holes. It also protects against cuts and punctures, as the fibers and coatings create a barrier that resists penetration.

   Flexibility and Freedom of Movement

   Ballistic nylon fabrics also prioritize flexibility and freedom of movement. This allows users to move comfortably and perform tasks without restriction, which is vital for military and law enforcement personnel engaged in dynamic operations. Moreover, the fabric’s ability to flex and stretch without losing strength ensures it can adapt to the wearer’s movements.

   Quick-Drying Nature

   Some tactical nylon textiles are engineered to have a quick-drying property, which allows them to rapidly shed moisture and remain lightweight. This is achieved through the fabric’s construction and hydrophobic fibers or treatments that repel water molecules. The quick-drying property is particularly beneficial in outdoor environments where exposure to rain or sweat is common.

   Reinforced Construction

   Ballistic nylon fabrics often feature reinforced areas in high-stress zones, such as seams, corners, and attachment points. This may involve additional layers of textile, stitching, or specialized features like bartack stitching or webbing overlays. By strengthening these vulnerable areas, the fabrics can better withstand the forces exerted on them during intense use.

   Tear Resistance

   The structure of ballistic nylon is engineered to resist tearing or ripping, even under high stress or impact. This resilience is often achieved through strong synthetic fibers and specialized weaving techniques that distribute forces evenly across the fabric. As a result, the textile can prevent tears from propagating and compromising the material’s strength.

   Tensile Strength

   Ballistic nylon is known for its exceptional tensile strength, which is the maximum force the fabric can withstand without breaking. This strength is achieved through high-tenacity synthetic fibers and specialized weaving techniques that maximize the load-bearing capacity. As a result, the materials can support heavy loads and withstand intense stress without stretching or tearing.

   UV Resistance

   Tactical nylon textiles may be treated with UV inhibitors or additives to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight. These elements prevent the degradation of the fibers caused by UV rays, preserving their strength and colorfastness over time. This property also guarantees that the textile remains durable and reliable, even when exposed to intense sunlight during outdoor activities.

   Water Resistance

   Many ballistic nylon fabrics are treated with water-resistant coatings or laminates like polyurethane or fluoropolymers. They create a barrier that effectively repels water, preventing moisture from seeping into the fabric and compromising its integrity. This property is essential for retaining the fabric’s strength and durability in wet environments.

   Get Superior Fabrics From HLC Industries!

   At HLC Industries, we offer a comprehensive selection of nylon products catering to diverse industry needs. Our product portfolio encompasses woven fabrics and tactical textiles meticulously crafted to deliver exceptional performance. Rest assured that our materials undergo rigorous engineering processes to meet the exacting standards of sectors like military, law enforcement, and outdoor gear!

   Contact us today for more information.

4. Synthetic Fabrics 101: Is Nylon Durable?

   August 11, 2023 8:26 am Leave a Comment

   Nylon is a type of synthetic fabric that is made from polymers known as polyamides. The DuPont chemical company first developed it in the 1930s, and it has since become one of the most widely used synthetic fabrics. Popular for various applications, it is known for its exceptional strength, durability, and abrasion resistance. It is also lightweight and has excellent elasticity.

   This article will delve into synthetic fabrics and compare nylon with two other popular materials: polyester and polyamide. We will explore this textile’s unique advantages and applications and highlight its competitive edge over these alternatives.

   Nylon vs. Polyester

   Nylon and polyester are two commonly used synthetic fabrics with distinct performance attributes. One notable difference lies in their durability and abrasion resistance. Nylon outperforms polyester in terms of its ability to withstand damage and external forces, making it suitable for applications requiring high durability. Furthermore, nylon’s superior resistance to oils and chemicals is advantageous in settings where such elements are likely present.

   Additionally, nylon carpets are generally considered more durable than polyester ones. Nylon’s strength and ability to resist considerable foot activity make it the preferred choice for high-traffic areas. As a result, these textiles have a longer lifespan and retain their appearance and performance even after extensive periods of regular use.

   Nylon vs. Polyamide

   Nylon and polyamides are closely related terms, as nylon is a specific type of polyamide. Both materials are polymers, but the main distinction is their composition. While nylon is an exclusively manufactured synthetic, polyamides can be derived from natural sources or produced synthetically. Natural sources include proteins, plant oils, silk, wool, animal hairs, chitin, and cellulose.

   Nylon surpasses polyamide in moisture and rain resistance. Polyamides have hydrophilic properties, indicating a lower intrinsic water resistance.

   How Durable Is Nylon?

   Nylon offers several advantages that have propelled its popularity across various industries. The following benefits distinguish it as a material of choice for many applications:

   Rugged Durability

   Rugged durability is the materials ability to withstand harsh conditions, rough handling, and extensive use without experiencing significant wear. This property results from nylons unique molecular structure and composition. The long-chain polyamide molecules form a tightly woven network that offers high tensile strength and resilience.

   Stretch and Elasticity

   Stretch is the ability of a material to elongate under strain, whereas elasticity is its capacity to return to its original shape. The polyamide molecules in nylon can be easily stretched and reconfigured, allowing the fabric to elongate without permanent deformation. In clothing, it provides a comfortable and form-fitting comfort. This allows the material to move with the body without restricting mobility.

   Heat and Water Resistance

   Nylon’s heat resistance ensures its structural integrity and performance even under challenging thermal conditions. This property is beneficial for applications where exposure to heat is likely, such as automotive engine components and electrical insulation. Nylon fibers also have inherent hydrophobic properties, meaning they repel water and are less prone to absorbing moisture.

   Melting Capabilities

   Nylon exhibits melting capabilities, so it softens and liquefies rather than ignite or burn when subjected to elevated temperatures. Once the melting point is reached, the molecular bonds within the structure weaken, enabling the material to transition into a molten state. This feature is valuable in applications where fire safety is a concern, as its melting behavior can help prevent the spread of flames.

   Ease of Production

   The availability of raw materials used in production, such as adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine, ensures a consistent supply chain for nylon-based textiles. Its synthesis can also be efficiently achieved through various industrial processes, which allows large-scale production and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, it has a well-established manufacturing procedure that can be carried out using different techniques.

   Applications of Nylon

   With its wide range of applications, nylon is a useful fiber in various industries. It can be employed to create a wide range of items, from toothbrush bristles to specialized products like instrument strings, carpeting, and bridal veils. Here are its other applications in multiple sectors:

   • Backpack
   • HorseblanketsTents
   • Protective Gear
   • Knee Pads
   • Tactical Kit
   • Safety Helmet Covers

   Nylon Products From HLC Industries

   HLC Industries offers a range of nylon products, including woven fabrics and tactical textiles. Our materials are available in various weights, weaves, and finishes, allowing for customization based on specific requirements. We also ensure they are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of multiple industries, including military, law enforcement, and outdoor gear.

   Contact us today for more information!

5. What are NIR-Compliant Fabrics?

   March 24, 2023 6:36 am Leave a Comment

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   HLC Industries has been supplying lining and pocket material for the men’s garment and textile industry since its founding in 1916. With more than a century of experience, we can deliver quality fabrics to customers in the US and worldwide. We continuously strive to improve our quality and service to ensure we provide products that meet or exceed your expectations and requirements.

   During World War II, HLC Industries provided uniform materials to the US Military and continue to serve military and commercial applications with our NIR-compliant fabrics. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of NIR compliance as well as how to make NIR-compliant fabrics.

   What Is NIR Compliance?

   Fabrics with NIR compliance are specialized textiles used in manufacturing military uniforms. NIR-compliant fabrics mimic radiation levels surrounding the wearer, making them less visible to infrared sight technology, such as night vision, thermal vision, or thermal imaging. Infrared sight methods are used to spot people in darkness or low-light environments; therefore, NIR-compliant fabrics are crucial in hiding troops from enemies and threats.

   Why Is NIR Compliance Important?

   NIR-compliant fabric is vital to military personnel in tactical situations due to its detection-avoidance capabilities. Because clothing covers most of the body, it plays an essential role in detection avoidance. Not only does NIR-compliant military clothing protect against environmental conditions such as wind, sun, and rain, but it also serves as a foundation upon which a camouflage pattern can be applied. By implementing NIR-compliant fabric into traditional military uniforms, you can adapt them to enhance their concealment and protection abilities.

   How Clothing Is Made NIR Compliant

   All NIR-compliant clothing begins with the base fabric. A common base fabric for military uniforms is Nylon, due to its durability, comfort, and high performance. There are various methods available to improve these fabrics and make them NIR-compliant. These methods include:

   • Modification by additives
   • Physical modification
   • Surface modification

   NIR spectroscopy is often used to analyze a fabric’s chemical bonds and composition. Chemical bonds are a primary factor when it comes to absorption regions and can be modified to increase fabric utility and achieve near-perfect camouflage.

   The military relies on our OCPX-Scorpion W-2 commercial fabric for its camouflage pattern. Our inventory of OCPX-Scorpion W-2 commercial fabric is polyurethane-coated in 330D, 500D, and 1000D, featuring a DWR class 3 finish. All of these materials meet NIR compliance for spectral reflectance properties.

   NIR Compliant Fabrics From HLC Industries

   NIR-compliant fabrics play a key role in military uniforms, offering a protective textile solution designed to prevent wearers from being detected via infrared sight technologies. Because of its detection-avoidance capabilities and other protective properties, this type of fabric is extremely important to tactical operations within the military industry.

   At HLC Industries, we understand the importance of NIR-compliant fabrics and strive to deliver high-quality textile solutions to meet harsh military demands. Specializing in lightweight to heavyweight woven Nylon textiles, we can provide custom-engineered fabrics for many specific applications. We can serve the textile needs of manufacturers and contractors who supply the US Armed Forces as well as global militaries. For more information about our NIR-compliant fabric solutions, contact us or call 800.220.3104 today.

6. What Is CORDURA^® Fabric?

   September 1, 2022 7:23 pm Leave a Comment

   CORDURA® fabric is a highly sought-after textile for apparel and tactical or outdoor gear because of its strength, durability, and resistance properties. With its ability to meet the challenges of rugged applications, this high-performance fabric is useful for the composition of products like backpacks, luggage, military gear, and other outdoor wear. Also, as fashion trends and garment technology move towards sustainability, environmentally friendly materials such as CORDURA fabric are becoming more popular. Learn more about the origins of CORDURA, what it comprises, its applications, and where to source it.

   

   CORDURA Fabric Origins

   Today, CORDURA® is a registered trademark of Invista, but its history spans more than fifty years. In 1967, the CORDURA brand debuted its first fabric offering, introducing a highly durable variety of nylon: Nylon 6.6 fiber. By the 1970s, manufacturers like Eastpak, Jansport, and Kelty started using CORDURA in their product lines for its high durability and tear resistance, breathability, and capabilities for UV protection and water repellency.

   CORDURA broke into the urban wear market in the 1980s. Then in the ’90s, CORDURA became increasingly popular as a high-performance fabric, with the U.S. military and companies like Carharrt utilizing CORDURA for tactical apparel and outerwear, and the brand began offering a line of dyed nylon yarn for enhanced color options. Over the last few decades, CORDURA has evidenced its commitment to eco-consciousness and innovation, with recycled polyester yarn and upgraded fabrics like mesh knits with better tensile strength. The textile continues to be prized for military and workwear, backpacks, duffels, and luggage.

   CORDURA Fabric: What’s It Made Of?

   CORDURA is a synthetic textile made from Nylon 6.6 fiber or a blend of cotton and other natural fibers. Nylon, in general, is a high-quality material due to its stiffness and hardness. It also has supreme toughness, particularly given its lightweight, with resistance to heat, fatigue, abrasion, and general wear.

   Although Nylon 6 is also common in industrial textile applications, manufacturers choose Nylon 6.6 for its greater resistance capabilities. Nylon 6 exhibits a higher rate of water absorption, a lower melting point, and suboptimal resistance to acids as compared to Nylon 6.6. Elasticity is another beneficial property of Nylon 6.6. Considering its wealth of advantages, Nylon 6.6 is perfect for rugged or high-tech applications in which dependable durability is paramount, such as military, work, or outdoor apparel, as well as carpets, tires, airbags, parachutes, and much more.

   CORDURA Fabric Applications

   While CORDURA has a multitude of uses due to its versatility, some of the most common applications include:

   • • Work apparel. Manufacturers use this fabric to make work apparel such as jackets, Dickies and Carhartt pants, overalls, and safety clothing because of its high tear resistance and water repellency.

   • Military apparel. CORDURA provides rugged strength in military boots, ponchos, body armor, tactical gear, and other Mil-Spec wearables for military applications. 

   • • Backpacks. CORDURA makes high-quality backpacks for rugged outdoor or adventure applications because it is tough, lightweight, and has a durable finish.

   • Soft-sided luggage. Duffels, suitcases, and more capitalize on the abrasion resistance and tensile strength that CORDURA offers.

   What Is CORDURA Ballistic Fabric?

   A higher-performance alternative to CORDURA, ballistic CORDURA is a tightly woven fabric made with high-tenacity Nylon 6.6. This fabric offers superior durability and resistance to tearing and abrasion, making it ideal for military applications, as well as work apparel, bags, footwear, and motorcycle gear. While it offers supreme tensile strength with an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, manufacturers can also coat or laminate it for added protection or enhanced properties.

   CORDURA Fabric From HLC Industries

   HLC Industries, Inc. has been supplying light- and heavy-weight textiles to diverse industries since 1916. As an ISO 9001:2015-certified manufacturer of nylon woven fabrics, we produce our innovative products in the USA and maintain Berry Amendment Compliance. HLC Industries also offers military-grade fabrics for added reliability in critical applications. Our fabrics range in weight from 1.1 oz. to 12.0 oz. to best serve our customers’ unique projects.

   If you’re looking for high-quality, American-made fabric solutions, review our product catalog for more information on our offerings, or request a quote today.

7. Industrial Textile Fabrics: Specifications and Applications

   March 14, 2022 3:55 pm Leave a Comment

   Industrial textile manufacturers utilize fiber as the underlying composition for their fabrics. Given the wide array of options for fiber creation and the treatment processes available to manufacturers, companies can create versatile fabrics with features tailored to a customer’s specific application.

   

   Fibers

   Fibers are long, thin materials that manufacturers spin to bond into yarn. The fibers that manufacturers choose for this process can imbue the resulting fabric with certain functional qualities, such as durability, breathability, electrical conductivity, and thermal insulation, as well as aesthetic qualities like drape and shine. These fibers come in natural and synthetic options, each having its own advantages.

   Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers

   Composed of renewable animal (protein) or plant (cellulose) material, natural fibers such as wool and cotton are structurally strong, chemically resistant materials. Their stiffness also lends natural fibers to applications requiring bending stiffness. However, natural fibers are less durable than synthetics and can have market price fluctuations. To help fabrics hold up over time, then, manufacturers can put the material through fiber treatments.

   Synthetic fibers are chemically processed polymers that are reliably strong and durable as manufactured yarn, woven textiles, bulk fibers, and other products. While they also provide resistance against chemicals, these fibers can melt under heat and have adverse environmental implications. 

   Industrial Textiles: Types and Specifications

   With all the custom fabrics and fiber treatments available, it is important to choose an industrial material with features that best serve your needs.

   Fiber and Fabric Types

   • Batting. Batting comes in sheets of thick, loosely webbed fiber layers for thermal applications like bedding or liners.
   • Monofilaments. Manufacturers utilize monofilament threads, a single spooled strand of fiber or filament, for woven or knit textiles.
   • Natural. Natural plant- or animal-based fabrics include cotton, linen, wool, and silk.
   • Rope and cordage. Cordage is composed of twisted yarn strands, with rope being a more durable type of cordage.
   • Roving. This fabric consists of continuous filaments in tows.
   • Sleeving. Sleevings are insulating fabric wraps that manufacturers make from braided, woven, or knit fibers.
   • Thread. Thread comes in mono- or multi-fiber filament constructions of twisted yarn for sewing.
   • Webbing. Webbing is an unravelable fabric manufactured as ribbons, tapes, or straps of textile fibers.
   • Yarn. Manufacturers generate yarns with standards of interlocked fiber filaments or fabrics and they are available in a wide range of plies for weaving, knitting, and more.

   Fabric Characteristics and Features

   Manufacturers can custom-make industrial textile fabrics to be:

   • Absorbent. Manufacturers can treat signature fabrics to enhance moisture absorption.
   • Waterproof. Alternatively, waterproof fabrics won’t degrade in the presence of water but repel it.
   • Insulators. Industrial textiles can provide thermal insulation, electrical or dielectric insulation, and soundproofing capabilities.
   • Resistant to chemicals and flame. Some materials naturally resist chemicals or fuel, or manufacturers can enhance this resistance with coatings or treatments. Also, flame-retardant fabric resists igniting and can slow the spread of fire.
   • Resistant to environmental conditions. In addition to moisture resistance, fabrics with UV treatments won’t degrade when exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light, making them ideal for exterior applications. Fabrics can potentially withstand temperature fluctuations as well.
   • Electrically conductive. Conductive fabrics are useful in anti-static or electrostatic discharge (ESD) applications, offering low levels of electrical resistance.

   Industrial Textile Fabric Applications

   Manufacturers customize industrial fabrics for applications in a wide array of industrial sectors, including:

   • Aerospace
   • Automotive
   • Chemical
   • Clothing
   • Construction
   • Electrical
   • Healthcare
   • Marine

   Industrial Textile Fabrics From HLC Industries, Inc.

   At HLC Industries, we produce high-quality industrial textile fabrics for use across a diverse array of industries and applications. Some of the fabrics we provide include:

   • Mil-Spec fabrics. Our fabrics are Berry Amendment-compliant and we can custom-engineer them to meet Mil-Spec standards for military applications.
   • Tactical nylon fabrics. We have light- and heavy-weight weave options in our nylon fabrics for high-tech applications.
   • Parachute fabrics. We produce specialty fabrics for military and commercial parachutes.
   • Commercial fabrics. We manufacture textiles in various weights and weaves with anti-static, anti-microbial, fire-retardant, nIR, and other enhancements.
   • INVISTA™ CORDURA® fabrics. These solution-dyed fabrics have a water-repellent finish for nIR spectral reflectance.
   • Commercial OCPX camouflage fabrics. These fabrics meet MIL-DTL-32439B specs, with polyurethane fibers and a water-repellent finish.

   Learn More About Industrial Textile Fabrics From HLC Industries

   HLC Industries is an ISO 9001:2015-certified company that produces Berry Amendment-compliant industrial textile fabrics in the USA. Contact us today to learn more about our 1.1-ounce to 12.0-ounce nylon woven fabrics or to request a quote and start your order.

8. Berry Compliant Fabric Overview

   January 7, 2022 6:02 am Leave a Comment

   Berry Compliant fabrics are necessary for manufacturers entering into contracts with the Department of Defense (DoD). The Berry Amendment outlines requirements for purchasing U.S.-produced textiles to support domestic industry. Learning more about what Berry Compliance is and why it matters can help you choose the right material for your application.

   

   Berry Compliance Definition and History

   The Berry Amendment is a statutory requirement that Congress passed in 1941 mandating that DoD projects use materials that are made or processed in the U.S. This requirement was originally meant to protect U.S. textile interests during times of war, and it still applies today, for products such as tools, food, tents, clothing, and other textiles.

   If you are manufacturing products for use by the DoD—or you’re fulfilling a contract that uses DoD funding—the materials you choose typically need to be Berry Compliant. Companies that have DoD contracts must certify that their goods are 100% domestically produced. 

   However, there are exceptions. Purchases might be exempt if they are for small contracts totaling below a defined minimum, contracts providing emergency products or perishable items to personnel abroad, production contracts with allies, and contracts that can’t be compliant because of a product’s domestic unavailability.

   What Is Berry Compliant Fabric?

   For a fabric to be Berry Compliant, that fabric and its components (such as the yarns and fibers, fabrics, and other textiles used to make the material) must have been domestically grown, made, or processed. As the U.S. has a diverse agricultural and industrial sector, a lot of different fabrics can be Berry Compliant. Some examples are:

   •     Clothing, to include outerwear, hats, belts, shoes, hose, and undergarments
   •     Coated synthetic fabrics, and the textile fibers that make up those fabrics
   •     Cotton and other natural fiber items
   •     Spun silk for cartridge cloth
   •     Tarps, tents, and related fabric parts
   •     Woolen yarns and fibers, or products produced using wool
   •     Woven silk and silk blends

   Berry Compliant materials can also include equipment made up of or used in the production of these domestically made textiles.

   Berry Compliance: Why It Matters

   Since 1941, the Berry Amendment has been protecting the textile industry from foreign competition. Berry Compliance continues to encourage DoD contractors to prioritize domestic purchases.

   For commercial and industrial entities or consumers not doing business with the DoD, being aware of which products are Berry Compliant can help them support the production of U.S.-generated goods should they prefer to do so.

   Berry Compliant Fabrics

   There are numerous domestic materials that are Berry Compliant. These fabric types include:

   Mil-Spec Fabrics

   Mil-Spec fabrics comply with a wide array of military standards based on the type of material and intended application. These mission-specific fabrics utilize light- or heavy-weight fibers and a high-quality weave, with uses in parachute systems, bags, netting, covers, linings, and more. Along with standard natural and synthetic fabrics, custom-engineered options are available.

   Parachute Fabrics

   Military and commercial organizations need high-quality parachute fabrics they can rely on for failure-proof applications such as aerial delivery. These materials pass testing at domestic government-certified locations.

   Commercial Fabrics

   Compliant commercial fabrics come in a wide range of weight and weave options for use in car covers, clothing linings, duffel bags, tents, parachutes, and more. Specialty fabric finishes are also available, including anti-static and fire-retardant coatings as well as antimicrobial treatments. Some materials have an nIR spectral reflectance finish, cloaking the wearer from infrared technology detection.

   CORDURA® Fabrics

   CORDURA® fabrics are available in various weights and Mil-Spec, Berry, and even nIr compliant options. Because of its durability, this material is often used in making bags, ideal for backpacks, luggage, and duffels. Flags and banners, outdoor clothing and gear, wallets, and windsocks are some additional examples of products that make use of these textiles. Again, manufacturers can add finishes for benefits such as water resistance.

   Berry Compliant Fabrics From HLC Industries

   At HLC Industries, Inc., we guarantee that our fabrics are domestically produced and compliant with the Berry Amendment. We offer Mil-Spec compliance and high-quality fabric solutions, along with fabric finishing services to help customize materials to your specifications. Our company is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer of 1.1-ounce to 12.0-ounce weights of nylon woven fabrics. If you’re in need of Berry Compliant fabrics or are looking to buy our American-made products, contact us today or request a quote to start your order.